Oct 6, 2017

Holiday Nights Dinner Package at the Eagle Tavern

Holiday Nights Dinner Package at the Eagle Tavern takes place in historic Greenfield Village in Dearborn during the month of December. We were able to attend the festivities courtesy of the Henry Ford so we could share our experience with you. The dinner package includes a delectable holiday feast in the Eagle Tavern and admission to Holiday Nights. Both events will make you feel like you are stepping into Christmas of the past.

The Eagle Tavern was built in Clinton, MI as a stagecoach stop for travelers. It still exudes the warmth and intimacy of an 1850 tavern experience today. Authentic 19th-century meals are served in the tavern during open season at the village. To see a sample menu, visit the Henry Ford website.

The experience of dinner at the Eagle Tavern during Holiday Nights is like no other. From an authentic holiday meal served by costumed servers to seasonal decor and live music from the period, be prepared to eat, drink, sing, and be merry while meeting new friends.

As guests arrive and are seated by their host, they are welcomed by appetizers at their table. These include Farmer's Cheese with crackers, cranberry relish, bread, and muffins. Guests are also invited to visit the wine station or bar to purchase time-period inspired alcoholic drinks, such as Mulled Cider (a favorite at the tavern). Coffee, hot tea, and water are included in the ticket price.

Eagle Tavern Bar

Wine Bar

After everyone is seated, the supper bell is rung by a selected guest and the host introduces the food. From that point on, the food just seems to keep coming. Before the main entrees, guests are invited to try a bowl of squash soup. The servers scoop the soup from a large pan into bowls which are then passed to the ends of the table until all have been served. This is part of the authentic experience.

Three main entrees are included in the meal. Each is served family style one at a time. The entrees consist of pork and apple pie, breast of chicken with cherry sauce, and roasted beef with fine brown sauce. Roasted potatoes, carrots, and parsnips are served as a side. All three entrees are of unique flavor and authentic to the time period.

Holiday songs are sung by a small group throughout the night including during dinner. But the real entertainment happens after the meal when guests are asked to sing-along to The Twelve Days of Christmas. Tables are assigned one of the numbered days and are invited to sing when it's their turn. This is a fun way to get everyone involved and moving after a large meal (some people choose to add actions).

Lastly, dessert is served. A chocolate Yule Cake is brought out to each table and the server cuts it into pieces to serve. This is a delicious way to end a fun night!Some tips:
1. Get your tickets well in advance. I was told they sell out quick...like in October!
2. Dress in layers. It gets really warm in the building, especially if you are seated next to the fire.
3. Pace yourself when eating
4. Meet some new friends at your table.
5. Relax and enjoy yourself!Tickets:
Visit the Henry Ford website for ticket information and pricing.

Rachel is the owner of Redesigning Happiness. She is a mother to three adorable Yorkshire Terrier dogs. On her blog, she shares ways to design a happy life along with great reviews, giveaways, travel and adventure ideas, recipes, money saving tips, and so much more.